“Some places they pay like $5 an hour and they share that pool of tips,” Palatty said.

Louise Cazley said she always leaves a gratuity, but more out of guilt than great service.

“I just think I’m too nice. Even if I feel the service wasn’t good, I’ll still pay for the service,” Cazely said. “I won’t complain, I just know I won’t go back to that place again.”

Psychologist Dr. Jennifer Harstein said don’t feel obligated.

“It’s really important to recognize why you’re doing it. Are you doing it because you want to or are you doing it because you have to? And if you have to, check that and recognize you don’t have to feel guilty for making a choice not to do something,” Harstein said.

Harstein said her biggest tip is to give what makes you feel good.

While the practice of tipping is prevalent in the United States, in many countries around the world it’s not expected and in some places, even considered offensive.

So do you tip out of guilt or as a reward for good service? Share your thoughts below…